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Acta sees Tribe's makeover as effort to compete

Acta sees Tribe's makeover as effort to compete

Manny Acta

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DETROIT -- Indians manager Manny Acta does not want the ballclub's recent roster moves to be taken the wrong way. The way he sees it, the latest additions are a sign of trying to improve, and not a sign of throwing in the towel on the season.

"This is not bringing the young kids or giving up or anything like that," Acta said prior to Friday's game against the Tigers. "We're trying to improve in spots where we weren't actually performing up to the standards that we need in order to continue to compete."

Cleveland, which has been in third place in the American League Central since July 15, designated veteran outfielder Johnny Damon for assignment on Friday -- one day after doing the same with struggling starter Derek Lowe. The Indians have 10 days to either trade or release the players.

With Lowe out of the rotation, and Josh Tomlin moved from a starting to relief role, the Indians are giving rookie right-hander Corey Kluber an opportunity. Cleveland is also expected to promote lefty Chris Seddon from Triple-A Columbus to start against Detroit on Sunday.

To fill Damon's roster spot, the Tribe called up outfielder Ezequiel Carrera from Triple-A.

"We kept giving those guys opportunities, hoping things were going to turn around," said Acta, referring to Damon and Lowe. "It just didn't happen, and some of our young guys deserve an opportunity to get the innings and to get the at-bats, too."